Last Updated on August 28, 2023
Chemical Engineering is an interdisciplinary subject that deals with transforming raw materials into useful products. People who work in Chemical Engineering focus on developing and optimising the processes used to create and refine products. Chemical engineers also strive to create better materials, which have improved properties, are more durable and last longer.
Chemical Engineering is a broad field of study that encompasses Chemistry, Biology, Applied Mathematics and Engineering Science.
Some of the things you’ll study during courses in Chemical Engineering are mechanics, thermodynamics, chemical reaction kinetics, and process design. You will need these engineering and scientific principles for your research and analytical work. You will also develop problem-solving and evaluating skills.
From optimising DNA sequencing to discovering how algae can be used as an alternative for petroleum, you could say chemical engineers have solutions to any problem. Chemical Engineering graduates learn to develop new drugs, and fertilizers, increase energy efficiency and manage chemical plants.
Many people might not understand exactly what you do and how it works – but that’s ok. You can simply tell them that many of the things they take for granted on a daily basis are influenced by your work. There’s no need to go into complex chemical formulas. You will sleep better at night knowing that you’re making the world safer, faster, and healthier.
Top Chemical Engineering Universities in Malaysia
Top Private Universities in Malaysia for Chemical Engineering Degree Courses
Outstanding Malaysian private universities for the Chemical Engineering degree programme are:
- Heriot-Watt University Malaysia
- University of Nottingham Malaysia Campus (UNMC)
- Monash University Malaysia
- Taylor’s University Lakeside Campus
Study at the Best Private Universities in Malaysia for Chemical Engineering
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Aun Jie, Chemical Engineering at Heriot-Watt University Malaysia
Chemical engineering is about designing the product and the process for manufacturing foods, fuels and materials from their raw state into a new form. Chemical engineers create the systems and equipment used in industrial chemical processing.
In addition, Chemical engineers in Malaysia are responsible for producing processed foods as well as engineering petrol, developing different plastics, dyes, paints and papers. Chemical Engineering usually operates on an industrial scale. A chemical engineer makes things happen efficiently on a massive, industrial manufacturing scale. And skills in chemistry, physics and mathematics, and even economics are what makes a chemical engineer so valuable.
There are not many universities that offer the Chemical Engineering degree in Malaysia and for those who offer, most are still new and do not have the accreditation from the Board of Engineers Malaysia (BEM). Therefore, students should choose the best university to study so that they can gain the necessary skills to succeed in the competitive work environment.
In order to succeed as a Chemical Engineer in Malaysia, students should choose the best private universities in Malaysia to study Chemical Engineering so that you can gain the necessary knowledge and skills. Students after SPM or UEC, should visit the universities’ campuses to look at the facilities and talk to the lecturers to gauge their experience.
Moreover, the chemical engineering degrees at the top private universities in Malaysia should be accredited by MQA and also the Board of Engineers Malaysia (BEM). Other than the academic quality of the universities, students must seriously consider the student environment. Research has shown that employers have rejected 56% of job interviewees because of the lack of skill in the English language.
Additionally, graduates with a strong command of the English language have also been found to earn 25% higher salaries and have faster promotions in their jobs. Therefore, in order to succeed, students should choose a private university with an English-speaking student environment to enhance their career competitiveness. You may save a few thousand by going to a cheaper university with a non-English speaking environment, but remember, you will be getting 25% lower salary and slower promotion for the next 50 years of your work life.
Entry Requirements into Chemical Engineering at Top Universities in Malaysia
Students after SPM or O-Levels who are sure of choosing engineering for their degree studies may go for the Foundation in Engineering. If you are still not sure whether you want engineering or other science courses, you may choose the Foundation in Science programme at premier private universities in Malaysia. Students after the external Pre-University Programme such as A-Levels, UEC, STPM, SAM, CPU, MUFY or AUSMAT may enter directly into the Chemical Engineering Degree programme with relevant results.
Accreditation of the Engineering Degrees by Board of Engineers Malaysia (BEM)
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Chong Han, Foundation in Engineering at Taylor’s University
Undergraduate degrees from top private universities in Malaysia typically take four years to complete and give you a broad understanding of the subject field, as well as developing your theoretical and practical techniques which could be transferred to almost any industry. UK engineering bachelor degrees are 3 years in duration and the 4th year is the M.Eng. or Master in Engineering.
The engineering degree programmes from Heriot-Watt University Malaysia, Taylor’s University, and UCSI Universityare four years in duration and are accredited or pending accreditation by the Board of Engineers Malaysia (BEM). The engineering degrees are four years in duration because of the requirement by the Board of Engineers Malaysia (BEM) in order for graduates to become professional engineers.
UK Engineering undergraduate degrees are offered as BEng or MEng, with the latter taking four years of full-time study. A BEng takes three years to complete and graduates are still able to find work without any problems. However, in order to become a professional engineer in Malaysia, a four-year engineering degree is required, therefore, graduates with a UK BEng degree will need to take a top-up and obtain the MEng.
For example, students can obtain a BEng from the engineering degrees at Heriot-Watt University Malaysia and continue on for another year to obtain the MEng. Therefore, will be allowed for registration with BEM.
In Australia, the Bachelor of Engineering (BE) is a four-year undergraduate course.
Top Ranked UK Degree in Chemical Engineering at Heriot-Watt University Malaysia
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Chee Yuan, Chemical Engineering at Heriot-Watt University Malaysia
Study Chemical Engineering BEng (Hons) at Heriot-Watt University Malaysia and get a degree from one of the best universities in the UK for engineering.
Heriot-Watt University’s Ranking in the Times/Sunday Times Good University Guide 2014 is in the Top 10 in the UK for Chemical Engineering, and Top in Scotland for Chemical Engineering.
The Complete University Guide 2015 ranks Heriot-Watt University 33rd in the UK and 4th in Scotland. Heriot-Watt University is 22nd in the world, based on the ‘international outlook’ indicator from THE World University Rankings. The university is placed in the top 4%, based on approximation of at least 10,000 universities in the world.
In accordance with Heriot-Watt University Malaysia’s normal practice, their professionally orientated programmes are designed to meet the educational requirements for membership of relevant professional institutions. In addition to accreditation within Malaysia, the university seeks accreditation by the relevant UK or international professional bodies in accordance with their standard procedures. BEng graduates from Heriot-Watt University Malaysia, with work experience and additional matching sections (higher
Heriot-Watt University
level academic study), are eligible for accreditation by the Institution of Chemical Engineers in the UK.
The Chemical Engineering BEng (Hons) at Heriot-Watt University Malaysia programme has been approved by Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA) and the Ministry of Education (MOE).
For registration by Board of Engineers Malaysia (BEM) a four-year undergraduate MEng programme is required. In addition, relevant work experience is required for accreditation by the Institution of Chemical Engineers in the UK.
Outstanding Chemical Engineering Degree Programme Accredited by Board of Engineers Malaysia (BEM) at Taylor’s University Lakeside Campus
Taylors University is strategically located at Subang Jaya, Selangor in a safe self-sustaining 27-acre campus
The Bachelor of Engineering (Hons) Chemical Engineering programme at Taylor’s University is designed to equip students with a sound understanding of fundamental theories and concepts in chemical engineering, primarily the knowledge to transform raw materials into useful products efficiently and safely, with minimal environmental impact.
Students after SPM or O-Levels with at least 5 credits including the relevant subjects may enter the Taylor’s University Foundation in Engineering for 1 year before continuing on to the chemical engineering degree. Pre-University graduates such as UEC, STPM, A-Levels, SAM, CPU, AUSMAT and others may enter directly into the 4-year Chemical Engineering degree providing they meet the minimum entry requirements. The Chemical Engineering degree at Taylor’s University is accredited by MQA and the Board of Engineers Malaysia (BEM). Taylor’s University is a top ranked private university in Malaysia and is an excellent choice for students who desire an education that is premier.
During the Chemical Engineering degree programme at Taylor’s University, students will acquire knowledge in integration of engineering principles and applications with chemistry and other sciences.
Students will be instilled with technical proficiency and industry knowledge, as well as the ability to apply theories into practical and feasible innovations, in a multidisciplinary environment.
4-Year Chemical Engineering programme at Taylor’s University
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Lyngkaran, Engineering at Taylor’s University
Focus on Core Expertise
- In-depth knowledge of optimising and controlling chemical engineering process systems using appropriate mathematical and simulation tools through modules such as Engineering Mathematics, Chemical Process Modelling and Chemical Process Control.
- In-depth knowledge and understanding of designing a process plant through modules such as Process Integration & Unit Operations, Engineering Economics, Safety Process Plant Design and Chemical Engineering Group Project.
Multidisciplinary Exposure
- Opportunity to acquire knowledge in oil and gas sectors as well as renewable energy, via elective modules such as Gas Processing & Liquefaction, Fundamentals of Petroleum Engineering and
- Renewable & Alternative Energies.
- Exposure to electrical and electronic engineering modules for a better understanding of the design and application of electrical and electronic circuitry in systems.
- Cultivate business-minded engineers through exposure to business management modules such as Business Skills for Engineers, Managing Projects for Success and Engineering Economics.
Engineered for the Real World
- Ability to develop and improve solutions catered to consumers’ needs through various engineering design modules.
Ability to apply the CDIOTM Framework to engineering processes and systems, taking into consideration functionality, safety, cost effectiveness and sustainability.
Dynamic Internship Programme for the Chemical Engineering Degree Programme at Taylors’ University
- 12-week industrial training to develop practical and relevant skills for future employment.
What do chemical engineers learn at top private universities in Malaysia?
When you are studying chemical engineering you’ll focus on ways to put chemicals to work and improve outcomes. You’ll learn skills in things like:
- Engineering and technology
- Chemistry
- Mathematics
- Physics
- Production and processing
- Computers and electronics
- Machines and mechanics
- Materials Science
- Thermodynamics
- Mass Transfer
- Heat Transfer
- Chemical Process
- Plant Safety
- Plant Engineering
- Fluid Mechanics
Chemical Engineers can work in many fields in Malaysia
A chemical engineer could use skills in science and maths to work in many different industries and doing many different things. :
- Bioprocesses – Working in pharmaceuticals and the food and drink industries.
- Chemical processes – Involving the fertiliser industry, including pesticides and herbicides, caustic soda, glass and specialty chemicals.
- Combustion – Large industrial furnaces such as those for steel manufacture or for power generation from coal or gas, or the recovery of valuable energy from waste.
- Environmental – Waste and water treatment, environmental regulations and recycling. Recovering and reusing valuable materials instead of dumping them.
- Minerals – Major minerals industries such as alumina/aluminium, steel, copper, lead and gold.
- Petrochemicals – Converting oil and gas into plastics, synthetic rubber and other things.
- Petroleum – Producing oil, gas and LPG from onshore and offshore fields.
- Process control – Instrumentation and control systems which make a manufacturing process run smoothly, safely and efficiently.
- Project delivery – Converting the design of a process plant into an efficient, safe operating plant
What do chemical engineers work as in Malaysia?
A chemical engineer focuses on the processes involved with transforming raw materials into usable, viable products.
Chemical engineers apply their skills in science, maths, environmental management and economics to make production processes more efficient. Industries that use chemical engineers to create their products require the design process to be safe, sustainable, and as cost effective as possible.They aim to get the best results at the least cost and with the lowest impact on the environment possible. And that’s what it’s all about for a chemical engineer.
As a chemical engineer in Malaysia, you could find yourself working on the following activities:
- Design and development of chemical processes and equipment
- Optimisation and control of industrial operations
- Plant operation and management
- Fundamental and applied research from the molecular level to full industrial scale
- Environmental management, monitoring and pollution control
Chemical engineers in Malaysia may perform the following kinds of tasks:
- Seek new and more efficient processes and materials, or improve or find new uses for existing materials.
- Design methods and equipment to control and contain the processes that transform basic materials into useful products.
- Ensure the safe, efficient and environmentally friendly operation of equipment and test products at various stages of production to check the quality.
- Make plans and specifications for new production plants, taking into account available technology, the cost and size of equipment and storage space, market needs, transport methods and disposal of surplus substances.
- Review current methods of production for cost efficiency, environmental friendliness, maximum output and product quality.
- Identify faults in the day-to-day operation of process plants (such as oil refining, steel making, water treatment) and take corrective action.
- Prepare reports, feasibility studies and cost analyses of processes.
- Provide product process information to sales and marketing personnel or customers.
- Direct and coordinate the work of maintenance and construction tradespeople or process plant operators.
- Find ways to minimise energy use, minimise waste production, including finding ways to turn wastes into valuable materials that can be re-used.
What is the Board of Engineers Malaysia (BEM)?
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Chee Yuan, Chemical Engineering at Heriot-Watt University Malaysia
The Board of Engineers Malaysia (BEM) registers graduates and professional engineers under the Registration of Engineers Act 1967 (Revised 2002). The requirement for registration as a graduate engineer is a degree in engineering recognised by the Board. Board of Engineers Malaysia (BEM) is the only body certifying Professional Engineers in Malaysia.
This regulatory body for engineering practices in Malaysia was set-up by the Malaysian government under the Registration of Engineers Act (1967) to administer and to enforce the Engineering Act and its provisions to protect public interest.
Only Graduate Engineers and Professional Engineers registered with the Board of Engineers, Malaysia (BEM) are entitled to practice engineering in Malaysia. All engineering practitioner MUST register with BEM within 6-months of practice.
A professional engineer (Ir or PEng) is a person who is licensed to practice to practice engineering in Malaysia after meeting all requirements of the (e.g. pass PI Examination).
